Today we celebrate International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), an annual event which helps increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.
Held on 3 December each year, the 2022 State theme is 'Leading the Change', which encourages everyone to commit to opportunity, inclusion and access for everyone.
An estimated 411,500 Western Australians live with disability. Today is an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and contributions within the community.
Hundreds of events are planned around the State to mark IDPwD, ranging from social inclusion forums and corporate lunches to market days.
Yesterday, Disability Services Minister Don Punch kicked off celebrations at one of the biggest events - the National Disability Services WA lunch, which is sponsored by the Department of Communities. Hundreds attend the lunch each year, which recognises the achievements of Western Australians with disability.
The State Government has also provided a total of $100,000 in funding to 97 organisations for 100 inclusive events and activities to be held across WA to mark IDPwD.
IDPwD also coincides with the release of the second Action Plan of the State Disability Strategy 2020-2030. The Strategy aims to build a more inclusive WA that empowers people with disability to participate meaningfully and feel connected to their community. This latest plan commits State Government agencies, disability service providers, industry and community organisations to meeting targets and making changes in line with the actions underpinning the Strategy.
To read the latest action plan visit:
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/state-disability-strategy-2020-2030
As stated by Disability Services Minister Don Punch:
"Celebrating International Day of People with Disability is an important part of building WA as an inclusive community.
"I sincerely hope that all Western Australians take the opportunity to reflect and think about what they're doing to ensure people with disability are engaged and empowered.
"It's up to all of us to build a community where everyone belongs, and people with disability are able to lead their best lives."
